Sea ordeal inspires safety mission

A harrowing childhood experience at sea has motivated Misideni Tanoa, a resident of Ekubu village on Vatulele Island, to become a champion for maritime safety training. Tanoa believes this training is vital for preventing tragedies in island communities. His passion for water safety stems from a frightening incident in 2002 when, as a second-grader, he was on a wooden boat that began taking on water while crossing to Korolevu. Rough seas pushed the vessel towards the shore as the adults on board desperately bailed water to keep it afloat.

Tanoa, who recently completed maritime safety training at the age of 30, now possesses the skills and confidence to respond to emergencies at sea. He emphasized the importance of the training, noting that fiber boats are the primary mode of transport for Vatulele's inhabitants. He expressed that his late father would have been proud to see him acquire these capabilities, ensuring safer journeys on the ocean. Tanoa views the training as a blessing for the community, enhancing the safety of islanders reaching their destinations.

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The training is very important because fibre boats are the main mode of transport for people living on Vatulele Island. My late father would have been proud to see me complete the course, knowing that I can now safely operate a boat and respond to emergencies while travelling on the ocean. I also believe that the training is a blessing for the community and will help ensure islanders reach their destinations safely.

Josaia Rabulu, from Bouwaqa village, highlighted the benefit of having the training delivered locally, enabling more community members to acquire essential safety skills. He pointed out that many islanders have spent their lives traveling by boat without formal emergency training. In the past, some individuals tragically lost their lives attempting to swim ashore when boats encountered problems. A key lesson emphasized in the training is the importance of remaining with the boat during an emergency, as it significantly increases the chances of survival until help arrives.

Through the Solesolevaka Ni Veitaqomaki project, over 100 Vatulele residents have graduated as certified maritime professionals. They have completed training for Boat Master Licence, Restricted Master of Engineer-Class 6, and small engine repair, equipping them with the knowledge and skills to enhance maritime safety in their community.

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Many islanders have spent their lives travelling by boat but have never received formal training on what to do during an emergency. In the past, some people abandoned their boats and tried to swim to shore when problems arose, with some tragically losing their lives. One of the key lessons is to remain with the boat during an emergency, as it offers the greatest chance of survival until help arrives.